Sandra Diane MacDonald

Sandra Diane Griffin MacDonald, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on January 27, 2025, at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital in Rockville, MD, at the age of 79. Sandra lived in Germantown, Maryland, where she created a warm and compassionate home.

Born on March 28, 1945, in Jackson, Alabama, Sandra was the eldest of five children born to Russell Drew Griffin and Earline Brunson Griffin. She is survived by her siblings: Dr. Ronnie Griffin, Darlene Bondi, Darelle Griffin, and Harriett Griffin Brooks.

A dedicated healthcare professional, Sandra graduated from Providence School of Nursing in Mobile, Alabama, in 1969. She devoted over 50 years to her nursing career, including 40 years at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Her journey in nursing took her from Druid City Hospital in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, to Birmingham and Huntsville, Alabama, where she worked in ICU heart care and heart health.

In 1980, Sandra moved to Atlanta, where she continued her nursing career at Lovett School and West Paces Ferry Hospital. In February 1981, she found her home at NIH, where she remained until her retirement in December 2021.

Sandra married James Anthony MacDonald III on December 12, 1969, in Tarrant City, Alabama. They shared a beautiful life together and welcomed two children into their family. Sandra is predeceased by her loving parents and her daughter, Kimberly Anne MacDonald. She is survived by her devoted husband, James; her son, James Anthony MacDonald IV, and his wife, Myesha; and her cherished grandchildren, Jaden, Kennedie, and James V. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews, all of whom will deeply miss her presence.

In her spare time, Sandra was an enthusiastic fan of the Washington Nationals and Washington Capitals. She cherished moments spent at the beach with her family, enjoying the sun and surf. Sandra will be remembered for her dedication to caring for others, her joyful spirit, and the love she shared with all who knew her.

A funeral service to honor Sandra's life was held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at St. Jane Frances de Chantal Catholic Church, located at 9601 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD. A visitation and graveside service will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025 in Jackson, Alabama. The viewing and visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 1:40 p.m. at Lathan Funeral Home, 1867 Highway 43, Jackson, AL 36545. The graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Memorial Gardens, 1601 Walker Springs Road, Jackson, AL 36545. Friends and family are welcome to attend and celebrate Sandra's remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that expressions of sympathy be directed to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Condolences can be sent to the family during this difficult time at (Insert link to funeral home site).